Earthing system
| Electrical installations |
|---|
| Wiring practice by region or country |
| Regulation of electrical installations |
| Cabling and accessories |
| Switching and protection devices |
An earthing system (internationally) or grounding system (US) connects specific parts of an electric power system, such as the conductive surfaces of equipment, with the ground for safety and functional purposes. The choice of earthing system can affect the safety and electromagnetic compatibility of the installation. Regulations for earthing systems vary among countries, though most follow the recommendations of the International Electrotechnical Commission (IEC). Regulations may identify special cases for earthing in mines, in patient care areas, or in hazardous areas of industrial plants.